Tips for Traveling with Your Pet

These days, dog-friendly accommodations range from the very basic to the lap of luxury, making it possible to bring four-legged family members just about anywhere you go. Here are some of our best tips for traveling with your pooch.

The ASPCA suggests searching for pet-friendly accommodations at PetsWelcome.com or GoPetFriendly.com. If you’re looking for upscale digs, check PAW, a directory of luxury, pet-friendly hotels (3-stars or higher).

Just because a hotel allows pets, it doesn’t necessarily mean they are pet-friendly—sometimes it’s more like pet-tolerant. Call the hotel directly to get more information and ask about restrictions like weight limits.

Update dog tags before you hit the road. Make sure they include a cell phone number you can be reached at during your trip. Consider upgrading to a tracking system like Tagg, which attaches to a pet’s existing collar and uses GPS so you can keep tabs on your pet from your mobile phone.

Look for pet products that simplify travel and save space like dog beds that fold up into a duffel bag and collapsible food and water bowls. Use a coupon code to save on your purchase like 30% off one item at Wag.com or $10 off $50+ at Petco.

If traveling by air, choose a direct flight and avoid flying in extreme heat. The Humane Society recommends booking early morning or late evening flights in summer. When you board the plane, ask a flight attendant to notify the captain that your pet is traveling in the cargo hold.

Take a current photo of Fido with your cell phone. That way if your pet gets lost, you can easily spread the word or even make posters.

Final tip: If your pup has to sit this trip out, consider dog-sitting services like dogvacay.com or rover.com, which connect pet owners with nearby host families.